Speed Skater Skips Ceremony Amid Diva Backlash

Jutta Leerdam, the speed skater and fiancée of Jake Paul, chose not to attend the Winter Olympics opening ceremony on Friday. Instead, she shared an image from her bed, showing her watching the Netherlands team parade. This absence came after she was criticized for traveling to the Games via private jet, a decision that led to her being branded a 'diva'.

Leerdam's journey to Milan-Cortina was documented on Instagram, featuring custom flags and cupcakes. Her subsequent arrival also involved private transportation. This behavior has reportedly drawn negative reactions in the Netherlands, with former soccer player Johan Derksen calling her conduct 'horrible' and like that of a 'diva'.

Analysts like Valentijn Driessen noted the extensive promotion of Leerdam's participation, suggesting she is a prominent Dutch representative. Despite the spotlight often linked to her relationship with Paul, Leerdam is an accomplished athlete with World Championship titles and an Olympic silver medal.

Separately, Team USA and Vice President JD Vance were met with boos during the opening ceremony's parade. The jeers intensified for Vance following protests related to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents at the Olympics. Team USA's flagbearers were speed skater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frankie del Luca.